Art therapy for children with Down syndrome and autism
Applicants of the Psychology specialty seek not only knowledge, but also take an active part in acquiring practical skills. Melania Kotova, a 2nd year full-time student, is an example of this
On March 25, 2026, a special art therapy for children with Down syndrome and autism took place in the city of Kherson, within the framework of the "Hlybynno" project.
The meeting was dedicated to the Day of people with Down syndrome - a day of acceptance, support and sincerity 💛
The art therapy class "Shoppers of Friendship" became a space where children talked about important things through creativity. We drew symbols of friendship and support, as well as a special exercise - the palms of children and their loved ones. After all, the palm is about care, warmth, presence and feeling "I'm not alone".
Each picture and each shopper became a reflection of the inner world of the child, his feelings and needs 💙
The event was attended by representatives of the city and regional military administration, who congratulated the children and presented them with gifts.
The project is implemented by the NGO "Youth Platform" with the assistance of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) in Ukraine and with the financial support of the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In Kherson, the project is implemented on the basis of the local youth space ("youth space"), which has become a point of support and a safe place for meetings, support and recovery of young people.
Various formats of work are carried out within the project:
• support groups where you can talk and be heard
• art therapy — as a way to express what is difficult to say in words
• training programs on stress resistance
• individual consultations